June 11, 2018

New Orleans Square Meets the Disneyland Hotel

Sure, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is a pretty spectacular setting! It may even be the new standard for Disney theme park attractions- one mega "E" Ticket, a bunch of shops and eateries and a few character interactions and experiences. It's definitely an effective way to position an Intellectual Property for prosperity for years to come. 

But then, there's the other way. Imagine if you will a land so elegantly and smartly designed that various attractions of similar theme but not story could mutually exist, inviting guests into stories they don't already know. Such is the case with New Orleans Square and its A list roster of experiences.

Imagineering produced some incredible concept art- and here's a rare piece by Herb Ryman for Disneyland's New Orleans Square; a piece designed exclusively for Disneyland Hotel.

If you look closely at this rendering, you'll see a large amount of benches to encourage guests to sit and take in the scenery. Part of the area's charm lies in its ability to allow this rest and reflection, enjoying life of a simpler time and place. There was no packing in almost 20 million guests a year, and making money wasn't the primary object. Walt Disney did what he did out of a love and respect for people. Making them a priority and always giving them more than they asked for, Walt knew this was the best way to build a loyal following, generate a good public image, and yes, make money as a result. This man had his priorities straight- and his company made millions by never forgetting their roots and their purpose.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

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